Claudio Bravo, hero of the Copa América final

The FC Barcelona goalkeeper turns in a heroic performance in the penalty shootout, allowing his team to beat Argentina and Leo Messi to retain the title

www.fcbarcelona.com

03:07AM Monday 27 Jun

27 Jun 16

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FC Barcelona goalkeeper and captain of the Chile national team, Claudio Bravo came up roses on Sunday night in the final of the 2016 Copa América, beating his Club teammate Lionel Messi and Argentina in a dramatic penalty shootout after the two teams went scoreless during two hours bitter and intense football.

The championship is Chile's second Copa América title ever, coming in back-to-back fashion.

With the match off to a frenetic pace in the opening minutes, Chile's Díaz was given his second booking in the 28th minute for a foul on Messi. But Argentina's man advantage was short-lived, as Marcos Rojo was sent off with a straight red card for a tackle on Arturo Vidal in the 43rd.

Chile's approach, which was focused on containing Messi, paid dividends. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner was the target of physical encounters all night long. A 70th minute tackle from behind by Charanguiz was emblematic of Chile's dedication to keeping Messi off balance.

Bravo comes up big

The FC Barcelona goalkeeper was steady in extra time, and was one of the big reasons Chile made it to the shootout.

Arturo Vidal shot first for Chile but it was saved by Argentina keeper Sergio Romero. Messi then stepped up with a chance to give Argentina the lead and put the pressure on Chile, but he missed high over the crossbar.

Chile made their next two, but Bravo couldn't stop shots by Blaugrana defender Javier Mascherano and his compatriot, Kun Agüero.

But after Chile made their fourth, it was up to Argentina's Lucas Biglia to keep the game alive. Bravo, however, made the save, handing Chile their second consecutive Copa América crown.